Can The Cosmic Shake bring the same success as Battle for Bikini Bottom?

While SpongeBob SquarePants games aren’t nearly as popular as the tv series, they definitely deserve a bit more attention. I’m not saying that they are going to be game of the year potential, but they generally stay true to what made the tv series popular, and that’s what makes Cosmic Shake such a great game for fans of the series. Much like Battle for Bikini Bottom Rehydrated from 2019, The Cosmic Shake uses its a colorful cast of characters, simplified gameplay mechanics, and the humor the series is known for to create a fun experience that isn’t without its faults. Will Cosmic Shake “shake” up the popularity of the SpongeBob games?

After blowing bubbles with wish-fulfilling Mermaid Tears, SpongeBob and Patrick create tears in the very fabric of the universe leaving Bikini Bottom and its inhabitants in disarray; and Patrick as a balloon! SpongeBob and Patrick must go through various portals found throughout Bikini Bottom to not only save their friends but to help repair Bikini Bottom. To help them along their journey, SpongeBob and Patrick are assisted by Madame Kassandra who seems to have some underlying motives.  When entering the portals found throughout Bikini Bottom, these worlds embrace different plots from the series’ past such as a pirate-themed world, a karate world, and many more.

The plot of Cosmic Shake feels like a SpongeBob movie that encompasses everything the series is known for. What makes the game stand out for me is the humor that fits perfectly with the level of comedy that made SpongeBob as popular as it is today. Now just like the show, sometimes the humor is bland or repeated to the point where it just gets annoying so if you weren’t in love with the comedy there this game isn’t going to change your mind on that. Personally, each portal offers a fun and unique sense of humor that had me laughing non-stop like the Karate level where you must film a movie with Squidward directing. Is it perfect, no, is it the right kind of dumb humor that catches you off guard, definitely!

Gameplay-wise, Cosmic Shake has me in a tough spot where I’m both impressed and disappointed. The core gameplay of Cosmic Shake is relatively barebones until you progress through the story when new abilities appear. Now you would think that these abilities would open new ways to explore, however, these abilities are limited to buttons that will only activate the abilities at set locations. While this is a minor annoyance, it just takes away the enjoyment of unlocking new features if you can only use them at certain locations throughout the world. It’s a shame because the abilities are pretty interesting like a bubble surfboard, karate kicks, etc. What had me impressed with Cosmic Shake was the continued introduction of new enemy variants. Each portal introduced new and unique enemies that made each area feel fresh.

The different worlds of Cosmic Shake, while interesting, offer a linear experience that is great on the first run-through, but lacks any reasons to revisit besides coins that are scattered throughout the maps. The coins that you collect allow you to unlock costumes from SpongeBob’s various adventures. If you’re not as concerned about dressing up, the game offers little reason to revisit various levels. While unlocking abilities did add small challenges to areas that you’ve already visited but nothing that makes it worth the effort.

For fans of SpongeBob, The Cosmic Shake is a solid game to enjoy. The humor from the show is very much present making up for the weaker moments of the gameplay. While boss battles and key moments throughout the game make The Cosmic Shake enjoyable, the game is not without its many flaws both gameplay-wise and presentation-wise. This isn’t going to be the game that makes a SpongeBob fan out of everyone, but for those who love the series and even those that enjoy lighthearted comedic titles, The Cosmic Shake is worth your time.

*Complementary copy of the game was provided by the developer for review purposes.